Green Energy Planned for Midtown’s Javitis Center

New York City has been making big moves in terms of making the Big Apple greener, through various environmental projects ranging from recycling to clean air, and particularly in clean energy from wind and solar sources. The newest development is the installation of a massive green roof at the Javtis Center in Midtown Manhattan, home to some of the areas biggest conventions and events.

The Javtis Center’s plans, as outlined in a recent report , span 292,000 square feet. Upgrades include replacement of the building’s roof and curtain wall as well as upgrades to the electrical system that will reduce energy useage and cost by a quarter, as well as improving the experience for convention center guests. The project is certified to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver status, and will be the second largest green roof project in the United States, only behind the Ford Motor Company’s River Rouge Plant.

“Green” refers to more then just energy savings – grasses planted on the rooftops will decrease stormwater runoff, preventing 6.8 million gallons of wasted stormwater per year. The grass on the roof also absorbs sunlight, greatly decreasing cooling costs during the summer months, and can be seen from adjoining high-rises, making for excellent views for the neighbors.

The Javtis Center is one of the top attractions in New York City, providing a meeting room for rent capable of seating thousands of attendees. It’s most common use is conventions, ranging for everything from cartoons to new cars. Over 2.5 million people visit the convention center every year in Midtown Manhattan, generating great revenues for hotels, eateries and more in the area. Javtis Center, through this project and others, will make the experience of New York City more green – promoting a public image of the city that’s focused on environmental improvements.